Holy Pastor of Arskerk De Mokker

Although De Mokker was mentioned as early as 1803, the settlement only developed into a village at the end of the 19th century. Schools, a convent, and the like were established. The church took time to build, especially considering the outbreak of the First World War. People had to go to church in Koekelare or Leke.

It wasn't until 1920 that a temporary church was established in a few war barracks that were brought over for that purpose. In 1923, De Mokker was elevated to a proosdij and in 1925 to an independent parish, dedicated to the Curé of Ars, who was canonized that year. The parish included parts of the parishes of Koekelare, Leke, and Vladslo. A statue of Mary, found by a German army chaplain at the front, was honored in the parish and a procession was held every year in honor of Our Lady of De Mokker.

The parish now included schools and a convent, but a permanent church was only completed in 1932. The church was surrounded by a cemetery, and in 1952 an ommegang was built in honor of Our Lady of Sorrows. For several decades, the church attracted pilgrims.

In 1970, a baptismal chapel and a porch were added.

Building [edit | edit source]

The church is built in a moderate expressionist style, made of yellow brick. It is a cross-shaped hall church with a high interior space and a brick bell gable. The Stations of the Cross are from 1932 and were made by Victor Verleyen.

Sources, notes, and/or references

Inventory of Immovable Heritage

SOURCE: Holy Curé of Ars Church (De Mokker) - Wikipedia

Joris Broché